Microsoft upgrades file exchange between Windows and iPhone

Microsoft is distributing new versions of the "Smartphone Link" software, also known as Phone Link, to participants in the Windows Insider Program. This now expands the capabilities that Windows has when interacting with iPhones.

Previously, it was possible to synchronize iMessages with the Windows PC and receive iOS notifications on the Windows desktop. It was also possible to access the address database and make phone calls directly from Windows. But something central was still missing: file exchange.

File exchange between iPhone and Windows

Some requirements must be met: The iPhone must be running iOS 16 or newer and the "Link to Windows" app version 1.24112.73 or newer on it. At least Phone Link 1.24112.89.0 is required on the Windows PC, and interested parties must also be registered in the Windows Insider Program. Microsoft supports both Windows 10 and Windows 11, but does not specify whether it is still only possible to use the slow Bluetooth or the faster WLAN.

If the iPhone has not yet been used with Phone Link, Phone Link offers file exchange when installing the Windows app. If you are already using the iPhone with Phone Link, you can configure file exchange in the settings on the PC.

To send a file from the iPhone to the PC, interested parties should navigate to the file or files they want to transfer. After clicking on the share icon, select "Link to Windows" and then tap the desired device. Conversely, to send one or more files from the Windows PC to the iPhone, simply right-click on them, select "Share", then "My Phone" or "Smartphone Link" and select the destination.

Microsoft has made far-reaching smartphone integration in Windows a priority. Since the end of June, the developers have significantly simplified smartphone access to Android phones, for example. For many tasks, connected smartphones no longer need to be picked up at all.

(dmk)